Experience Your Best Florida Vacation

The Sunshine State is about more than Mickey Mouse. The world outside the Magic Kingdom casts its own spells with candy-colored Art Deco hotels, pearly white beaches, and a wide variety of flora and fauna.

With highlights ranging from the manmade (Walt Disney World) to the all-natural (Everglades National Park), Florida can do no wrong as a destination spot. Its miles of coastline, endless summers and affordable, kid-friendly hotels, mean that it's bound to be on your list of vacation spots at least once. Let Orbitz help you plan your trip, starting with the best time to go, the top 10 attractions and insider tips on all things related to Florida travel.

To a Floridian, cold is any temperature that dips below 70 degrees. Accustomed to two climates -- hot and hotter -- the locals don't waste the sunshine, but those not familiar with the humidity and tropical temps should stay away during certain times of the year.

Weather-wise, the mildest seasons are fall, winter and early spring. However, with those cooler temps come the crowds, especially in cities such as Miami and Orlando, a huge draw for spring breakers and snow birds. Summer is a staple for families en route to the theme parks.

Hurricane season officially covers the period between June and November, but the state has seen storms hit outside these months.

Madeira Beach

Some Florida beaches outlaw public drinking; an exception is Madeira Beach. You can thank me when you're sipping a bottle of Corona in your bikini.

Pelican Hotel on Ocean Drive

For an offbeat, but still highly stylized, South Beach experience, check in at the Pelican Hotel on Ocean Drive. Created by Diesel Jeans, the hotel boasts theme rooms that will truly get you excited about what's behind the door. Executive Zebra, anyone?

Ichetucknee Springs State Park

Want to skip Disney World this year? Plan a trip to Ichetucknee Springs State Park, which is best explored by inner tube.

ICEBAR Orlando

This might just be Florida's most quirky bar: ICEBAR Orlando. Nowhere else in Florida will you get to don a thermal cape just to drink vodka -- chilled, of course -- in a setting where even the bar stools are made out of ice.

Blue Spring State Park

Even in 'winter time' the water temperature is still in the 70s in Blue Spring State Park, also a designated wildlife refuge for manatees.

Orlando

Orlando Hotels

Tropical landscaping and lagoons create an exotic atmosphere at the recently-refurbished Wyndham Orlando Resort International Drive in Orlando, known as the Official Hotel of I-Drive 360 and Home of the Orlando Eye. Relax in the whirlpools or sauna, burn off some...
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When booking your stay, ask for a room far away from the elevators to enjoy the quietest space.Odd numbered rooms have a view of Downtown Disney, which is an excellent way to watch the fireworks displays in the area. GeneralWyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, Orlando,...
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Baymont Inn and Suites is a non-smoking hotel with all the comforts of home. For families, there is a free shuttle service to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resorts and SeaWorld Orlando. For business guests, there is an 812 square foot meeting room which...
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Visit the guest relations counter to purchase discounted tickets for Disney World, Universal Studios and other attractions.Jump on a shuttle to many of the attractions for a small fee. GeneralSeralago Hotel and Suites Maingate East - Orlando, FL LocationSeralago Hotel...
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Settle into a special retreat surrounded by more than 1,400 landscaped acres when you check into the Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake. This unique condominium resort spreads family fun through four unique villages that comprise one of Orlando's most beautiful...
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Just south of the Magic Kingdom, you'll discover a resort that enchants children and grownups alike. Florida hotels promise deluxe accommodations and this remarkable Disney property epitomizes the concept with a stunning architectural exterior opening into a utopia of...
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To save time on grocery shopping and preparing meals in your villa's kitchen, give Garden Grocers a call.The market delivers a large variety of grocery items to the Orlando and Daytona Beach areas for an additional charge. GeneralMagical Memories Villas - Disney Area,...
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Disney groups hotel properties into three categories: value, moderate and deluxe. Pop Century is a value resort, great for families on a budget. Themed around trends spanning the 1950s through to the 1990s, the exterior makes guests feel like they've entered a time-warp...
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Take advantage of the concierge service to maximize any discounts or coupons for the theme parks.In terms of more 'grownup' entertainment, Senor Frog's has a fun atmosphere and a full events program - use the hotel's babysitting service if you'd like to cut loose there...
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The Royal Palm South Beach Miami boasts an enviable location on Collins Avenue, just north of the iconic Ocean Drive at 15th Street. With direct access to the beach and boardwalk, the resort is near the most appealing attractions of vibrant South Beach.The resort...
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Collins AvenueSouth BeachViscaya Museum and GardensAncient Spanish Monastery GeneralThe tropical setting at Newport Beachside Resort appeals to couples on a romantic getaway, families on a summer vacation or business people staying in the area. At guests' request, the...
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Sophisticated but fun, the Catalina Hotel and Beach Club Miami Beach combines the classic elegance of Europe with the hip vibe of a beach club. The decor is relaxing with soft neutrals and splashes of color. It's resplendent with two pools, four bars and a rooftop...
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With an Art Deco exterior enhanced by palm trees, the Dream South Beach in Miami Beach offers comfortable lodging in an atmosphere that combines modern styling with tropical influences. The heated outdoor swimming pool located on the rooftop is surrounded by chaises and...
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Pristine views of Biscayne Bay, a picturesque marina and business amenities lure pre-cruise travelers and executives to Miami Marriott Hotel Biscayne Bay, a luxury hotel near the Port of Miami. The 600-room property has 31 floors and size to its advantage. The Miami...
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Miami is all about color and RED South Beach Hotel greets guests with the brightest in the sea, coral red, umbrellas and baroque mirror frames. Hotel highlights include patio restaurant, swimming pool and beachfront right across the street. Refined guests enjoy staying on...
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Original 1936 Vitrolite panels light the entrance to this Art Deco jewel in the heart of South Beach. The 42-room hotel is more minimalist than its flashier competitors and has been restored to its initial splendor. The expansive lobby has a tiled floor and dramatic...
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Fort Myers

Fort Myers Hotels

Comfortable, spacious rooms with Florida-friendly amenities like balconies and an outdoor pool make the Naples Plaza Hotel a great choice for vacationers and business travelers on a budget. Proximity to swanky Naples, beaches, shopping and attractions seals the...
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Unlike chain resorts, the Diamond Head Beach Resort is an independently owned resort hotel on the sugary-white sand beaches of Fort Myers. This all-suite hotel boasts familiar amenities like a heated beachfront pool and day spa, but with a casual, unpretentious vibe....
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Continuously owned by the same family for 40 years, the Outrigger Beach Resort offers families an affordable beach vacation. Relax on the beach, read by the pool, sip a cold drink or get involved in a volleyball game. A vacation at the Outrigger Beach Resort is like...
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The Naples Bay Resort feels like an exclusive waterfront village where every amenity and service is a phone call or short walk away. Guests enjoy the finest personalized service, sophisticated accommodations and an ambiance that is like no other in Naples, all with a...
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